Spanish Immersion – air credit + stay + cruise

Departing from Australia, relax and enjoy an overnight flight to Barcelona, Spain.

Enjoy two night’s pre-cruise accommodation in a 4-star hotel in Barcelona, and spend your time exploring this stunning city at your leisure.
Barcelona is a stunning city that combines the charm of Rome with the sophistication of Paris. This vibrant city boasts clean, wide streets, beautiful architecture, beaches, palm trees, cozy cafés, and unique boutique shops. Add in some delicious tapas, the whimsical creations of Gaudí, and sparkling cava, and you have an incredible destination just waiting to be discovered.

You have another full day and night to further explore beautiful Barcelona. Spend time wandering the Gothic Quarter, a maze of narrow, cobblestone streets that will transport you back in time. Or visit the Sagrada Familia, a masterpiece of Roman Catholic architecture designed by Antoni Gaudí. Although it is still a work in progress, this iconic church is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see in Barcelona. Park Güell, another Gaudí creation and UNESCO World Heritage Site, is another popular attraction in Barcelona. With its whimsical buildings and a colorful tiled bench shaped like a serpent, it’s a must-visit spot. Barcelona truly is a city like no other, where history, art, and culture come together in a magical blend.

It’s time to set sail. After you check out of your hotel, your private transfer will take you to the port where you will embark Azamara Journey for your 10 night luxury cruise from Barcelona to Lisbon.

During your first port of call, discover the vibrant city of Valencia, where the legendary Spaniard “El Cid” defended against the Moors. Stroll down la Calle de Los Caballeros and explore La Lonja, the old stock-exchange building dating back to 1483. Build up your appetite and indulge in a delicious Paella Valenciana, Spain’s most famous contribution to the world’s tables. Valencia invites you to satisfy your curiosity and taste buds in this captivating city.

Strategically situated along historic sailing routes, Cartagena has been influenced by a variety of Mediterranean superpowers over the centuries, resulting in a diverse and rich cultural heritage. Whilst in port, you can explore it history – both the magnificent and the turbulent. Visit Concepción Castle which, perched atop a hill, has long served as a stronghold for Carthaginians, Romans, Visigoths, Arabs, and Castilians. Or visit the Old Cathedral, dating back to the 13th century, that is built on the remains of a Roman Theater that was unearthed in 1987. Or explore the modernist designs by students of the renowned architect Antoni Gaudi that have more recently made their mark on public buildings and private homes in the city.

Malaga is the vibrant capital of the Costa del Sol, known for its beautiful beaches and mild climate. It serves as the gateway to Andalusia, showcasing its Moorish architectural heritage. The city’s Alcazaba is a stunning example, dating back to the 11th century and offering breathtaking views of the African coast. Within its walls are three magnificent palaces and charming gardens with intricate fountains. In addition to its rich cultural heritage, Malagueños take pride in their famous residents, such as Picasso, whose birth is commemorated in a museum here. Another notable figure is actor Antonio Banderas, although a monument in his honour has yet to be erected.

The Rock of Gibraltar is truly a breathtaking sight to behold. Standing tall at a height of 1,400 ft, it overlooks the mouth of the Mediterranean Sea, serving as a natural fortress in a strategic location to monitor all naval traffic between the Mediterranean and the Atlantic. Despite its small size of only three miles long and a mile wide, this peninsula connected to the Spanish mainland extends into the Strait of Gibraltar, separating continental Europe from North Africa by a mere 14 miles. One of the most unique features of this stunning landmark is the presence of semi-wild Barbary macaques, who are known for their unusual tailless appearance. These macaques have made The Rock’s upper reaches their home, adding to the charm and allure of this extraordinary destination.

Seville, home to the magnificent cathedral and The Alcazar, is renowned for inventing tapas. The passionate nature of Sevillanos shines through in their love for food, bullfighting, flamenco, and fiesta. Your ship docks in port for two nights, giving you plenty of time for extended shore excursions and free time to explore at your leisure.

Today you have a full day and night in Seville, as your ship docks in port for another overnighter. You could explore on your own or book one of Azamara’s shore excursions for a full day of exploration. Options include a leisurely sightseeing drive that includes stops at the iconic Golden Tower and the impressive Plaza Plaza de España; a tour of archeological site, Italica; an evening of flamenco performance at Tablao El Arenal, a venue hailed as one of the best in the world to watch this sensual dance; or a cruise of the Guadalquivir River that delivers you to an authentic Spanish tapas tasting. These excursions, and more, can all be booked prior to your cruise on whilst onboard.

Today is your last day in port in Seville, with Azamara Onward due to leave at 2.00 pm. It’s the perfect opportunity to get in the last of your sightseeing before boarding for the last leg of your Spanish Immersion journey.

Spend the day at sea as Azamara Onward leaves the shores of Spain and takes you to your final destination in Portugal. A sea day is the perfect time to relax poolside, book your final specialty dining reservation, catch that show you haven’t yet seen, and spend time with new friends before disembarkation takes you separate ways.

This morning your ship docks in port in Lisbon and you have one final night onboard Azamara Onward as she overnights in port. Lisbon is one of the oldest cities in the world, with a magnificent harbour that has served as a trading port since the time of the Phoenicians. With two days to explore at your leisure post-cruise, why not book one last shore excursion with Azamara for your final full cruise day? You could visit hallowed Fatima; discover the medieval village of Obidos on an excursion that includes a guided tour and plenty of time to shop and explore on your own; or even explore Lisbon by tuk-tuk on an exciting drive through it’s ancient quarters.

The cruise portion of your holiday has come to an end, and disembarkation begins at 8.00am. You will have a private transfer waiting to take you to your central hotel, where you are booked for two night’s post-cruise accommodation. Today you could discover Lisbon’s rich tapestry of history and culture as you wander through the charming streets of Alfama, the city’s oldest neighbourhood, filled with colourful houses and hidden gems around every corner. Or, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Praça do Comércio, where you can admire the grandeur of the waterfront square, indulge in delicious local cuisine at nearby eateries, and soak in breathtaking views of the Tagus River.

Today is your final day / night in Lisbon, so spend the day visiting any landmarks that are still on your must-see list, and then enjoy one final evening in this beautiful city.

Today you’ll fly back to Australia. Thinking of extending you stay and exploring more of Europe? Speak to our expert Travel Advisors about our flexible airfares and incredible European accommodation packages.